Solid Oak Handrail Installation Procedure

Note: If your kit came with the optional in-between spindles, they are installed after the handrail is attached to the standard spindles.

STEP #1:

Find the section of handrail that has the top end without the rail bolt access holes or special stud bolt and place this section on top of the spindles allowing two to three inches of overhang past the uppermost spindle.

STEP #2:

Check the location of the access holes under the rail to make certain that none are blocked by spindles (or if your kit has inbetween spindles, check the location of the access holes where the in-between spindles will mount) so they are all accessible and are not where a spindle will screw into the handrail. Make certain that you leave two to three inches of overhang at the top and bottom.

STEP #3:

Check the top spindle for plumb with a level and drill a 1⁄8" pilot hole through the adjustable spindle head from the bottom into the handrail, making sure that the rail remains seated on the spindle. Secure with a #10 x 2" long flat head screw. Continue attaching the spindles working down to the first handrail joint.

STEP #4:

Loosely secure the next section of handrail (the one with a stud bolt and access holes at each end) and engage the threaded stud in the special ball nut. Make certain that the threaded portion of the ball nut is facing the stud bolt and turn the ball nut using the steel pin provided.

STEP #5:

(A.) Examine the first handrail joint, if the joint is parallel continue with STEP #5(C). (B.) If the joint does not align properly it may be necessary to recut the joint slightly to ensure a perfect fit. If this is necessary, remove the stud bolt, slide the handrail up on top of the spindles until it touches the upper section. Hold straight edge first vertically and second horizontally against the upper section of handrail and mark the lower section of handrail accordingly. SEE DIAGRAM Then carefully with a helper, use a chop saw to trim the lower section to the markings. Re-install the stud bolt. Test fit to the upper section. If the joint aligns PROCEED TO STEP #6 If the joint is still out of square, then repeat the above procedure.

(C.) Unclamp the rails and replace the stud bolt. Spread a thin film of glue on the end of the next section and rethread the ball nut and tighten completely, making certain that the next section is seated on top of the spindles. Continue drilling, screwing the spindles, and securing the joints until all spindles are attached.

STEP #6:

Trim the ends so that there is two to three inches of overhang and cut the ends square. Spread a thin film of glue on the end cap and center it on the end of the rail. Drill a 1⁄8" pilot hole and screw on the cap. Cover the hole with a wood button and sand it flush with the cap.

STEP #7:

Sand smooth the joints and end caps until all blend. Stain the handrail or clear coat with a polyurethane varnish. Check manufacturer’s directions for finish application instructions.